Intense winds hitting velocities of as high as 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in around 90,000 homes lacking electricity and compelled authorities to call off more than 100 flights, according to local media.
The gales are impacting the entire South Island and southern parts of the North Island, per the weather forecasting body.
The nation's agencies have issued uncommon severe gust advisories - the top caution category - in core zones including these major districts.
Locals have been encouraged to remain inside, refrain from journeys, and prepare for more utility disruptions.
Widespread Destruction and Emergency Response
The electricity loss is primarily influencing households predominantly in the South Island, although officials state that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have reported that in certain areas homes have lost their roofs, whereas power lines and trees have been knocked down by the gales.
Within the capital, a person was lost his life after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on earlier this week.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a road by a strong gust of wind, in a event that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Air travel in and out of the urban area have been halted as a result of the weather, while certain highways and community centers are not operating.
Simultaneously Canterbury officials have announced a emergency situation, to support disaster response efforts.
Work Stoppages During Extreme Weather
The powerful gales on this day come as many of school staff, physicians and civil servants are engaged in what has been termed a "significant labor action", requesting better pay and working conditions.
Yet the severe conditions has compelled them to alter certain arrangements, with several external protests shifted to interior venues or abandoned.
Similar gusts are affecting the nearby nation, causing a heatwave to the remote areas.
Authorities have issued fire bans for concern about bushfires.
